PRAYING THRU THE 10/40 WINDOW: Gaza Strip & West Bank. Lord, we cry out to you on behalf of men, women & children who are lost in false beliefs, perishing from poverty and hunger & oppressed by the corrupt political systems. Draw all to You through a supernatural revelation of Jesus Christ as Messiah. We long to see witnesses spread throughout the land proclaiming the message of salvation in Jesus name, amen!

All that has ever existed, all that exists today, and all that will ever exist comes from the Lord ... they were, are, and will be made BY Him and FOR Him.

Can your imagination imagine it?

Can your understanding understand it?

What an awesome God we serve! What a mighty God we serve! What a powerful God we serve!

"For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him" (Colossians 1:16).

This verse is a wonderful reminder that nothing escapes the attention of our God. He created everything for a reason. It is also a reminder that with Him all things are possible. If he can create the universe in such a detailed and complex way, He can take care of our daily needs. He's not stumped by our unique circumstances. Neither is He overwhelmed by the greatness of our troubles, the weightiness of our burden, or the complexity of our need. As a matter of fact, we are reminded that there is a REASON for everything He has created. We may not see the reason behind the circumstances of life we face, but we are assured that there IS a reason and He is working on our behalf ... creating the way where there seems to be no way.

Look to Him today even though your circumstances may seem overwhelming. Remember, if He can create a universe with all the principalities, powers, thrones and dominions ... He's certainly able to take care of us. He is MORE than able!

Father, forgive my unbelief again. It is so easy to be overcome with the weight of my circumstances and not see the manifestation of Your awesome provision. You truly are great, awesome, and mighty ... there is none like You, no not one. Help me remember, Father, that you are my Waymaker ... You're still in the "creation" business, making ways where I fail to see them. I love you, Lord! Amen!

"Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honor and power: for thou hast created all things, and for thy pleasure they are and were created." (Revelation 4:11)

© Jan Ross
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PRAYING THRU THE 10/40 WINDOW: Syria & Mongolia. Lord, there are so many needs in these countries; they need a revelation of Jesus Christ as Redeemer, Savior, and Lord. Send Your workers into the harvest, empower them by Your Holy Spirit to speak Life where there is death, to speak Freedom where there is oppression & bondage to culture and godless belief systems, & to embrace the people with Your love in Jesus' name.

PRAYING THRU THE 10/40 WINDOW: Tunisia & Cambodia. Father, with less than 1% of these nations confessing Jesus Christ as Lord, we pray for open ears to hear, open eyes to see, & open hearts to receive the message of Truth. Commission evangelists from within their own borders to spread the Good News and proclaim salvation in Jesus Christ, amen!

"Mrs. John Wesley said, 'There are two things to do with the Bible: believe it and behave it!'" (Leonard Ravenhill) My thought is if don't "behave" it, we don't truly "believe" it!

PRAYING THRU THE 10/40 WINDOW: Oman & Kazakhstan. Lord, draw all to You thru a supernatural revelation of Jesus Christ as Messiah and declare Him Lord. Strengthen the persecuted. Grant grace to those who declare Your Name at the risk of their lives. Give courage to those who want to believe but are fearful. Raise up an army to proclaim salvation in Jesus name, amen!

PRAYING THRU THE 10/40 WINDOW: Libya & Malaysia. Father, we lift up these countries to You today & ask for a revelation of Truth to spread throughout the lands. Your people are oppressed & in bondage to sin and false beliefs--set them free by the power of the blood of Jesus Christ. Hear us, oh Lord, and send laborers with the message of redemption & deliverance in Jesus' name, amen.

This morning I woke up unprepared for what the next hour would bring. The normal routine began with coffee and trying to wake up in order to spend some time reading and considering the Word. Gracie, our 3-1/2 year old cockapoo decided she needed to go outside, so I grabbed her leash and opened the back door as she led me out onto the patio. As she busied herself taking care of her needs, my breath was nearly taken away as my attention was seized by the landscape surrounding me. Immediately, I sensed the presence of the Lord.

After contemplating such majestic scenery, I came inside to try to capture with words the regal staging: The glistening grass shimmers in the morning's light as the dew reflects the rays of the sun filtering through the mist. Oh, what glory! Oh, such beauty! Behold, the Artist's living portrait is on display! Draw us closer, precious Lord, that our eyes might perceive Your beauty in all things. Teach us to look for Your presence every minute of every day. Amen!

I'm drawn to consider His mercy, a gift so undeserved yet so lavishly given to us simply because of God's love for us. A song continues to reverberate throughout my entire being, one phrase in particular: "Your mercy goes much deeper, father than I can see."

I am reminded of Psalm 36:5. "Thy mercy, O LORD, is in the heavens; and thy faithfulness reacheth unto the clouds."

God's mercy and faithfulness toward us is totally unmerited and undeserved. Mercy and faithfulness are attributes of God which are passed on to us because of His goodness and for His pleasure.

What an awesome thought that fits perfectly into the "Art Show" witnessed this morning. It is for His own pleasure that He is merciful. His mercy is visible in His artistry. It pleases Him to be forever faithful toward us even though we don't deserve it. There are times I feel like a freeloader, partaking of His gift of mercy and faithfulness yet failing to pay the price. Yet, to receive His mercy and to recognize and trust in His faithfulness is a form of praise to the Most High God. He is glorified as we learn to walk in the fullness of all He gave us so freely.

His hand of mercy can be seen in our lives each day as we sense His faithfulness to us in spite of our shortcomings. With humility of heart and meekness of spirit, we offer our sacrifice of praise to One who gives such a precious, costly gift. Our gift back to Him consists of our love, devotion, adoration and most importantly, our obedience.

Take a few moments right now to thank Him for His MERCY and FAITHFULNESS. God IS good and His mercy endures forever. I need His mercy more every day and am so grateful it goes so much deeper, farther than we can see.

Your mercy, Lord, is deep, reaching parts of our lives we aren't even aware of, cleansing us and perfecting us, accepting us wholly and deeply. Your faithfulness is beyond measure. Thank you, Lord for Your mercy which goes much deeper, farther than I can see. Amen.

© Jan Ross
All Rights Reserved

The glistening grass shimmers in the morning's light as the morning dew reflects the rays of the sun filtering through the mist. Oh, what glory! Oh, such beauty! Behold, the Artist's living portrait is on display! Draw us closer, precious Lord, that our eyes might perceive Your beauty in all things. Teach us to look for Your presence every minute of every day. Amen!

"God is looking for people who will live recklessly for Him--not concerned with public opinion or preacher's opinions, but becoming a love slave of Jesus Christ." (Ravenhill)

Years ago when he was in school, our nephew was a wrestler. He was the strongest kid I'd ever seen, seemingly born to be a champion. I can remember his mom and dad reporting week after week how he'd won his matches with ease. He ended up wrestling at the State and National competition levels, winning titles and medals for his strength and power. He literally couldn't be stopped. He was determined, never took his eye off his opponent, and mustered up all his strength to win no matter who he happened to engage in the competition.

When I think back about this young man, I'm reminded of Ephesians 6:12. "For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places."

Against whom are we fighting? With whom do we get angry during a disagreement? If we are like most folks, we find ourselves targeting people as if we were in a wrestling match engaging an opponent face-to-face.

According to the dictionary, wrestling is a battle of strength between two opposing forces; it is contending or striving.

Keep that in mind as you consider 1 Corinthians 9:25 which speaks of striving: "And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible." It is the same word used in Luke 13:24 that says, "Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able."

Paul, in his second letter to Timothy, reveals to us the reward for this "striving" in chapter 4 verses 7-8: "I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith; henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing."

Our wrestling against principalities, powers, and rules of darkness, against spiritual wickedness in high places, is a part of the striving process we must use as we press toward the mark of the prize of the high calling in Christ Jesus. It's a daily passionate striving as we pursue our enemy—not flesh and blood.

In our fight, we must be diligent and remain committed. We're promised it won't be easy; the word "strive" indicates resistance which will attempt to press us back in an effort to cause us to lose ground in our pursuit of the prize. We can't give up; we MUST develop tenacity and determination that will not weaken in the midst of the fray.

Let's get beyond the flesh and blood and our own corrupt natures to realize that we live in the midst of one spiritual battle after another. Our battle is with the ranks of the enemy although he most often uses those closest to us to engage us if he can and, unfortunately, he usually can. But, it doesn't have to always be that way.

The Word of God tells us to withstand, to hold our ground. Thank God for the shed blood of the Precious Lamb that gives us the power to stand against his wiles and that has bought for us victory over the enemy. Our battle is against principalities, against powers, etc. The enemy is divisive, scheming, manipulative, crafty, and so on. But, we serve the God Most High, Righteous, and Holy, and Supreme over all; there is none who can compare to our Victorious King of Kings and Lord of Lords … the Champion Wrestler.

Father, help me to remember that my battle is NOT with flesh and blood. Help me to withstand the wiles of the devil, to recognize the enemy quickly and to stand firm against him. Lord, let Your strength rise up within me, giving me the strength needed in the midst of battle. Lord, I am weak, but You are strong. I am vulnerable, but You are my Defense. I am nothing and You are EVERYTHING. I love You, Lord, Amen!

"Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses." (1 Timothy 6:12)

© Jan Ross
All Rights Reserved

PRAYING THRU THE 10/40 WINDOW: Chad & Algeria. Lord we call out the names of these countries to You. Hear our cry as we plead the blood of Jesus over ever man, woman, and child. Poverty, persecution, political corruption oppresses Your people. Open their eyes to see Salvation in Jesus Christ as the only Way, Truth, and Life. Send laborers with the message of Hope and Life in Jesus name, amen.

"Worry is a cycle of inefficient thoughts whirling around a center of fear." (Corrie ten Boom) When we find ourselves worrying, remember our worries are rooted in fear and fear is diametrically opposed to faith.

PRAYING THRU THE 10/40 WINDOW: Ethiopia & Myanmar. Lord, we lift up these nations, pleading the blood of Jesus over all believers. We ask that You raise up missionaries from within their own borders to reach the masses with the Good News of Jesus Christ. Protect the persecuted. Set free those who are oppressed. Meet the incredible needs of the impoverished. All that Jesus might be glorified. Amen!

"Faith, as Paul saw it, was a living, flaming thing leading to surrender and obedience to the commandments of Christ." - A.W. Tozer

PRAYING THRU THE 10/40 WINDOW: Qatar & Turkmenistan. Father, we grieve when we learn of those being persecuted for their faith, the incredible poverty, & the corrupt governments. Strengthen those who are strongly opposed for their faith, provide for those who are in desperate need, & lead those who rule to do so with justice. Send laborers, Lord, to share the Good News & reap a harvest of souls for Your glory, amen.

"We ought not to tolerate for a minute the ghastly and grievous thought that God will not answer prayer." - Charles Haddon Spurgeon

"The world out there is not waiting for a new definition of Christianity; it's waiting for a new demonstration of Christianity." (Ravenhill)

A Miracle for Chandini, the Heart of God India Update for August contains an incredible testimony to the power of prayer. http://ping.fm/e35Np

PRAYING THRU THE 10/40 WINDOW: Brunei & Lebanon. Just because we're unfamiliar with the names of countries, Father, doesn't give us an excuse not to pray for them. We lift up Brunei & Lebanon today and ask for Your Spirit to go throughout these lands and draw all men to you; open eyes to the true Messiah whose blood was shed for their redemption. Strengthen those who believe and give them courage to stand. Amen.

Sitting at the drive-through window at a fast food restaurant a while back, I did the usual thing ... I drove up to the speaker and placed my order. I drove to the first window and paid, then drove to the second window and waited for my order. After sitting there for a few minutes, the clerk slid back the window and said, "Will you please pull over to the side; your order is not ready."

I was a little upset, but I pulled over and waited wondering what could be taking so long. Other customers drove straight through yet there I sat for what seemed to be eternity before the clerk finally ran out, tapped on the window and handed me the order.

Of course I asked her what took so long. "You wanted the special sauce which meant your sandwich required special handling; it doesn't usually come with that one.

This scene reminds me of our prayer life. We make our requests known to the Lord. The menu is His Word where He has given us His promises, explained the cost (the conditions we must meet to receive the promises), and He assures us that He will give us the desires of our heart. But if God doesn't answer immediately or meet our expectations, we become impatient.

"Lord, I prayed yesterday, and You still haven't answered. I can't wait much longer. Why is it taking You so long?"

Others around us are seeing their prayers answered. God is moving in their lives. Yet, it appears we've been overlooked or neglected. Then, just when we think things are about to work out and our prayer has been answered, He pulls back the royal curtain of eternity: "Please pull over to the side and wait a while longer; I'm not finished yet!"

On this particular day it frustrated me to no end until the clerk brought out my sandwich. I was in a hurry and didn't have time to wait. But, the revelation became clear: The answer I was waiting for was custom made for me and since I made a request, and He only gives good and perfect things, it will come in His time and not mine. Custom-made answers from God take time because they are prepared in a way that is perfect for us.

Maybe the "parable" isn't perfect, but I believe God's message to us is clear. How often have we missed our blessings because we did not wait?

Have patience. Keep on waiting. You made a request, now wait on God's answer. He knows the need and He has the answer!

"But they that wait on the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run and not be weary, and they shall walk, and not faint." (Isaiah 40:31)

They who wait shall receive an answer!

Father, forgive me for my impatience. So often I pray and, because of my anxiousness, I become frustrated and begin to doubt. As simple as this parable was, Lord, it showed me where my lack of trust in You has often cost me a special blessing from You. Forgive me, Lord, and help me to remember that all things are done in Your time, that You see the bigger picture and know what I need when I need it. Help me remember that Your ways are higher than mine and that Your love for me never fails. Lord, I want to trust You more, I want to love You more, I want more of You! Amen!

"Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the LORD." (Psalm 27:17)

© Jan Ross
All Rights Reserved

PRAYING THRU THE 10/40 WINDOW: Taiwan & Bahrain. Lord, we pray You would pour out Your Spirit upon all flesh in Taiwan & Bahrain. The needs are great with so many who are deceived by the father of lies who has appeared as truth. Lord, expose false beliefs & draw all men to You by Your Spirit. Protect the persecuted. Redeem the lost. Feed the hungry. Set free the oppressed. Comfort those who mourn in Jesus' name amen.

Well, the fact is that I could use some prayer. For the past few days, I've been really struggling, almost to the point of feeling depressed. Although I can't go into any detail, the load gets heavy sometimes and I have a hard time keeping my mind set on the fact that it's not my burden to carry.

Thanks for your prayers … thanks for caring enough to remember to pray for me, our family, the ministry, and everything that goes with it.

Love,
Jan

"Nobody's perfect!" I've heard it more times than I can count. Frankly, I've said it more times than I care to admit. It's a common excuse we blurt out when we've made a mistake or done something wrong.

James 1:4 puts a different perspective on those infamous words. In fact, we're told to be perfect. "But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing."

The perfect man referred to in today's verse is the one who is mature, full of integrity and virtue. What is maturity? The following description of maturity is by an unknown author but aptly describes the Christian's goal to be "perfect and entire, wanting nothing."

Maturity is the ability to do a job whether you are supervised or not, finish a job once it is started, carry money without spending it, and be able to bear an injustice without wanting to get even. Maturity is the ability to control anger and settle differences without violence. Maturity is patience. It is the willingness to postpone immediate gratification in favor of the long-term gain. Maturity is perseverance, the ability to sweat out a project or a situation in spite of heavy opposition and discouraging setbacks. Maturity is the capacity to face unpleasantness and frustration, discomfort and defeat without complaint or collapse. Maturity is humility. It is being big enough to say, "I was wrong." And when right, the mature person need not experience the satisfaction of saying, "I told you so." Maturity is the ability to make a decision and stand by it, as opposed to the immature person who spends their life exploring endless possibilities and then doing nothing. Maturity means dependability, keeping one's word, coming through in a crisis.

To be mature in God's eyes, one must not only possess these qualities, but be found complete in Him, having heart (not head) knowledge of the Word, being humble yet totally convinced of His forgiveness and mercy. Moreover, maturity is living in reverence to Him, responding to Him in obedience, resigning oneself to His will, trusting implicitly in Him, and retaining the motivation to worship Him and Him alone.

Are you mature? Are you complete? Seek His face, read His Word, grow in His wisdom, be faithful in all things. You will soon find that you are not only on the path to becoming "perfect" according to today's verse, but you will reflect the ever-challenging image of maturity in your walk with Christ.

Father, when I compare my ways against those of a mature Christian, I am found lacking. Lord, help me to grow in maturity so my life will reflect Your incredible mercy and grace. Lord, help me to put away childish things and immaturity and to take on maturity so others may see a true representation of Your glory in the earth today. Amen.

"Brethren, do not be children in understanding; however, in malice be babes, but in understanding be mature." (1 Corinthians 14:20)

© Jan Ross
All Rights Reserved

PRAYING THRU THE 10/40 WINDOW: Yemen & VietNam. Father, we so often overlook the nations we don't hear about as often as others. But the needs are great, persecution continues to escalate, poverty kills, & corruption in the government oppresses. You sent Jesus to redeem those in Yemen and VietNam; we plead the blood and stand with them for deliverance. Send laborers with the message of Truth, in Jesus name, amen.

Words are very powerful. They can build one up; they can tear one down. Words can produce life; they can deal a deadly blow. Words can edify, exhort, glorify, and praise. Carefully chosen words can alter an entire life, whereas careless words have the potential to destroy someone's life.

As a child, I can vividly remember certain things my parents said to me—words that either built me up and made me strong or those which tore me down and depleted my sense of self-worth. Their words echo in my heart to this day; at times I must deal with those words which were carelessly spoken. I'm certain my parents never meant to harm me just as our words are most likely never meant to harm those to whom we're speaking.

"Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O LORD, my strength, and my redeemer." (Psalm 19:14)

The Psalmist wants to use God's Word, the Law, the Testament, the Statutes of God as a standard by which his words are judged. And, that takes courage! But then he takes it a step further, a place where we dread to go. David allows God to judge the "meditation of [his] heart."

Most Christians say they are willing to submit their words to the leadership of the Holy Spirit; however, very few are dare to venture past that to the point where they will allow the Lord to judge the meditations of their heart. When your meditations become implanted within the heart's womb, they bear fruit.

Take a few moments and examine the fruit implanted in your heart. Is it sweet or is it bitter? Sweet fruit cannot grow in a bitter environment. In fact, a bitter heart will corrupt and eventually kill the good fruit it is producing.

Recently I read a quote worth passing along: "Bitterness is the poison that we drink thinking we are killing the other person." In other words, the bitterness produced in our hearts does nothing to the one toward whom we are bitter, but instead works as a poison to us. Allowing bitterness to grow in us is spiritual suicide and many times it affects our physical health leading to illness and even premature death.

What is hiding in your heart? Are you pleased to open the door of your heart and allow the Lord to judge your thoughts? Will both your words and your meditations be found acceptable in the sight of God?

Father, if the meditations of my heart are not pleasing to You, if the words of my mouth are displeasing, Lord, show me, forgive me, help me, cleanse me, and purify me so that I may speak of and think on those things which bring life, build up, edify, exhort, glorify and praise. Oh Lord, cleanse me and make my heart right before You for You alone are my heart's desire ... there is NONE like You! Amen!

"If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." (1 John 1:9)

© Jan Ross
All Rights Reserved

PRAYING THRU THE 10/40 WINDOW: Japan & Djibouti. Lord, draw all to You through a supernatural revelation of Jesus Christ as Messiah. We long to see these nations declare Him Lord. Strengthen the persecuted. Minister grace to those who declare Your Name at the risk of their lives. Give courage to those who want to believe but who are fearful. Raise up an army to proclaim message of salvation in Jesus name, amen!

New August Issue of JournEzine now online! http://ping.fm/h2ppF

PRAYING THRU THE 10/40 WINDOW: Israel & Tajikistan. Lord, how our hearts are burdened. We plead for Your mercy, for a revelation of Truth, & for Your Spirit to draw all to Your great salvation. Lord, provide for the poor, heal the sinsick and diseased, deliver the bound, and set free the captives. We pray for the peace of Jerusalem. Open the floodgates & let Your mercy flow free to flood these lands, in Jesus' name, amen!

PRAYING THRU THE 10/40 WINDOW: Nepal & United Arab Emirates. Lord, our attention is drawn to these two nations today as we pray. Send messengers equipped with the Word of Truth in the power of Your Spirit to proclaim freedom from every bondage. Set Your people free, Lord, to apprehend Your Truth in the midst of darkness. Shine Your Light so all may see and know that Jesus Christ is Lord, amen and amen!

PRAYING THRU THE 10/40 WINDOW: Egypt & Uzbekistan. Lord, we call upon Your mighty & holy name lifting up these nations to You. Poverty, corruption in the government, persecution of believers, millions of people need to hear the Truth. Send laborers, Lord, those with boldness to declare the Truth with power & anointing, dispelling the lies of false religion. Lead in Egypt & Uzbekistan out of darkness in Jesus' name, amen.

Did you know Constitutional Articles & Preambles of all 50 States credit God for freedom? http://ping.fm/iLH59

PRAYING THRU THE 10/40 WINDOW: Laos & Western Sahara. Father, You alone understand the problems the people in these nations face. You alone can bring Peace & Truth to the hearts of the millions who are blinded by the lies of false religion. Lord, give strength to the persecuted & use them to reveal Your glory. Send laborers into these fields with the Word of Truth that will set them free, in Jesus' name, amen.

"Everything is safe which we commit to Him, and nothing is really safe which is not so committed." - A.W.Tozer

Physical endurance has never been one of my strong points. Even as a child, I wasn't overly athletic except, perhaps, for swimming—I was a good swimmer and worked hard to receive my Red Cross lifeguard credentials. Other than swimming, however, sports seemed difficult for me. I wasn't one to run the race and complete it. I rarely played an entire game of volleyball without growing weary and quitting before the end of the game.

I look at Hebrews 11listing the heroes of the faith and wonder if that type of endurance could be found in my own heart. They had all been heirs to the promise of God, yet they were mocked, imprisoned, stoned, sawn asunder, tempted, slain with the sword, destitute, afflicted, tormented, wandered in deserts and in mountains, etc. What a life for a hero, for one who had been regarded as one of the 'great cloud of witnesses' (Hebrews 12:1) who had walked this life leaving behind a legacy worthy of inclusion in the Word of God.

When I read of what these saints endured for the sake of the faith, I cringe at my own inability to endure physical challenges or my moaning and groaning because things don't go quite the way I want or expect.

"And these all, having obtained a good report through faith, received not the promise" (Hebrews 11:39)

Endurance is more than a physical challenge. It's a spiritual discipline, and not an easy one at that. The heroes of faith in Hebrews 11 endured to the end, many of them not ever receiving the manifestation of the promises of God in their own lifetimes. Yet, they persevered. They endured.

We don't know when God intends to fulfill His promises to us. One would hope to see God move in our lifetimes. Yet, many of these men and women who are hailed for having great faith never wavered in their commitment although they went to their grave without having received those things God had personally promised. They never wavered. They didn't doubt. They endured.

God's promises, according to the Word, are "yes and amen" (1 Corinthians 1:20). He has a perfect timetable for every promise He has made to the Church and to us personally. When God makes a promise, He keeps that promise. His promises may even span the time beyond our lives, but that doesn't mean His promises aren't true.

Do we have the enduring faith like the heroes of faith in Hebrews 11? Consider this to be our challenge … to develop strong faith, not in the manifestation of the promise, but in the One who promised. When God says He'll do something, it's as good as done.

Develop enduring faith. It's the type of faith that pleases God and glorifies Him as the true Promise-Keeper.

Father, there are times I struggle with enduring faith. I grow weary of waiting for Your promise to be manifest in my life. Forgive me. Teach me, Lord, to trust You so the legacy I leave behind when I die will be like those in Hebrews 11 who, "having obtained a good report through faith, received not the promise" yet had true enduring faith. In Jesus' precious name, amen.

© Jan Ross
All Rights Reserved

This speaks to me HUGELY this morning: "Be a pebble in a pond. Or in a shoe." ~Steve Graham

PRAYING THRU THE 10/40 WINDOW: Benin & Indonesia. Millions of people, Lord, need to hear the Gospel in these countries. Persecution, corruption in the government, tribal, cultural and false religions are blinding people created to bring YOU glory. Father, send laborers into these fields, dispelling all lies and leading them to the Truth. We pray the lost will be saved and the blinded eyes opened, in Jesus' name, amen.

"I will praise you forever for what you have done; in your name I will hope, for your name is good. I will praise you in the presence of your saints." (Psalm 52:9)

Sponsored by Soldiers Bible Ministry, the US Heritage Bible (hits the market by Christmas) is humbly presented in solemn remembrance of those countless soldiers and martyrs for Christ who preceded us to Glory. http://ping.fm/nS9hQ

There is absolutely nothing for which God has not made provision! He has considered it all; nothing escapes His knowledge and His purpose ... there is a purpose for everything under the sun!

In Kenya, a land where little is much and where nothing is taken for granted, a simple dose of tender loving care can heal the deep wounds of the heart. A few years ago, we, as a team of missionaries, had the awesome privilege of not only seeing the need from a distance, but we were called to touch, embrace, hold, and even kiss the cheeks of many who needed only to know they were loved.

But then, there were those who were sick, some even nearing deaths door ... no money, no doctors, no medicines. Their only hope was out of reach for them because of the lack of means to receive help. During this particular outreach to Kenya, God used our team to provide care to hundreds of people through the work of a wonderful group of volunteer physicians and medical professionals. When I stop to consider the impact of the three days of medical clinics, I'm reminded of Ezekiel 47:12…

"Fruit trees of all kinds will grow on both banks of the river. Their leaves will not wither, nor will their fruit fail. Every month they will bear, because the water from the sanctuary flows to them. Their fruit will serve for food and their leaves for healing." (Ezekiel 47:12)

According to the doctors and medical professionals, "leaves for healing" saved numerous lives during the free medical camps in regions where the sting of death and disease touches nearly every home.

Having witnessed this with my own eyes, it's easy to see how the "water from the sanctuary flows" to those in need, giving food and leaves for healing. The verse in Ezekiel spoke so powerfully to me as we were serving food (the Word of God) and leaves of healing (medicines) as the water (the Word) was flowing from the sanctuary (the heart of God)! Living Water flowing from our bellies, from the temple, which we are … the Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ and the healing He perfected through the volunteer medical staff ... it's almost more than I can fathom! Praise His Holy Name! What a privilege to be used to reflect the heart of God through His Word. It was the process of the work of grace in action ... God's grace poured out to those in need, drawing them to Himself with His outstretched arms. What an incredible picture!

When you begin to think you have nothing to offer, or are tempted to believe you are insignificant in the Kingdom of God, remember the times you reached out and embraced the unembraceable or loved the unlovable. Remember the times you lent a helping hand to one in need, the time you offered words of encouragement to a downcast friend. You, too, were as the water flowing from the sanctuary, serving food and leaves for healing.

Do you consider yourself unfruitful? Not hardly! Begin to thank God for every opportunity He has given you and begin to pray for more opportunities to be a vessel through which He can pour His love and confirm His Word ... He's waiting for you to ask.

Father, so often we feel insignificant in the Kingdom and useless -- sometimes we feel like excess baggage, taking up room but not doing our share. So many times we have felt like only highly-visible missionaries can make a difference. Father, use us! We make ourselves available to You to be used to serve "food" and offer "leaves for healing" to those You bring into our lives. Forgive us for not taking every opportunity You have already brought to us ... help us to look for them and to take advantage of every chance to minister Your grace to those in need. "Here I am, Lord, use me!" for Your glory, that Your Kingdom be increased and Your name magnified in all the earth! In Jesus' name, amen and amen!

"Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, "Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?" And I said, "Here am I. Send me!" (Isaiah 6:8)

© Jan Ross
All Rights Reserved

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Note: We are accepting applications for the 2011 India Outreach. Our goal is to have the team formed by September 1; please contact me to learn more.

PRAYING THRU THE 10/40 WINDOW: Mali & Azerbaijan. Lord, when we look at the statistics for these two nations, we are grieved. Political corruption is a powerful force that must bow to the Name of Jesus. Godlessness and false religions have blinded over 99% of the people. Lord, send laborers into the harvest to proclaim the saving grace of Jesus Christ. Reign supreme in Mali and Azerbaijan, in Jesus' name, amen.

"Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything." James 1:2-4

PRAYING THRU THE 10/40 WINDOW: Iran & Burkina. Father, we turn our hearts toward You, asking for Your mercies to be made new and your faithfulness seen in these nations. Lord, open the blinded eyes. Heal the sinsick souls. Release those bound by false religion. We pray for Truth to prevail in these lands. Protect the persecuted and give them the grace to stand unwavering in the face of hatred, in Jesus' name, amen.

"He is the Author of the new creation; the Way, the Truth, and the Life; the Prophet, Priest, and King of regenerate humanity. He is Immanuel, God with us; the Eternal Word become flesh; very God and very man in one undivided person, the Saviour of the world." (Philip Schaff)

FREEDOM: “It’s not ours by inheritance; it must be fought for and defended constantly by each generation, for it comes only once to a people. Those who have known freedom and then lost it have never known it again.” Ronald Reagan

When Jesus left this earth, He opened His heart and gave us a glimpse of what was most important to Him … it was and still is His will that none should perish but all come to the saving knowledge of our precious Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Our purpose in ministry is aligned with the Great Commission to “go into all the world and make disciples of all nations” using every opportunity and every means possible. http://ping.fm/u5A6c

PRAYING THRU THE 10/40 WINDOW: Niger & Kyrgyzstan. Lord, as we focus on these two nations today, we pray for eyes to be opened and hearts receptive to Your Word. Send laborers into these fields with a declaration of Truth, for Your Word says it is Truth that will set them free. We pray the lost will be saved, the bound will be freed, and the oppressed will find peace in the precious name of Jesus. Amen!

Jesus' last words serve as a reminder of why He came, why He called us, and why He empowered us with His Holy Spirit. His work on earth—His sinless life, atoning sacrifice, and victorious resurrection—wasn’t about anything other than building His Kingdom through us, His church. This is the lifeblood of Heart of God International Ministries ... fulfilling the Great Commission. http://ping.fm/xMXxU

Normally, things don't bother me. It takes a lot to stir me up to the point of reacting. However, something that really challenges my peace is to get behind a driver who is discourteous or simply doesn't pay attention to what he or she is doing.

We live in the country and the roads aren't flat and, in many cases, they're anything but straight. A driver not staying in his lane but straddling the center line, leaving no room for oncoming traffic, is not only discourteous but unsafe. I'm sure you've encountered similar drivers who, for any number of reasons, shouldn't be on the road.

I began to think about these center-line drivers not too long ago and realized that my issue with such drivers has a spiritual basis … either drive on one side of the road or the other—driving down the middle is not only unacceptable but mortally dangerous. The fact is, Jesus made reference to this very same problem:

"I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot. So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth." (Revelation 3:15-16)

According to this scripture, living (or driving) on the "center line" just won't get it. It's either hot or cold … one side of the road or the other. He wants us to make our choice and live within the boundaries of that choice. It's either one way or the other; the "in-between," in fact, is abominable or spewable…totally unacceptable to Him and spiritually dangerous for us.

Everywhere we go we see people who are not committed to anything. It is almost an epidemic. People will not (for various reasons) commit to much at all. Not to their families—look at divorce rates. Not to their employers (or employees)—look at the jobless rates. Not to their commitment to raise their children—look at how many children are raised by daycares, video games and television. And, certainly not to God Himself. In essence, people find it hard to make any type of true, lasting commitment.

Commitment is the vehicle by which we live our Christian life. Commitment is not half-way or "center-line." It's not lukewarm. Commitment is giving of oneself wholly and completely to God and His service, not sometimes, or every once in a while. Commitment is all; it's jumping in with both feet with nothing held back. Commitment is being a Christian in every area of our lives, not just on Sunday, not just when we're with other Christians, not just when we feel like it. Commitment is being a Christian ALL the time. Commitment is choosing a "lane" and sticking to it by exercising caution, diligence, and restraint. Commitment is a life of discipline.

The lukewarm, non-committed Christian is, in God's own words, not pleasing to Him at all. An abomination . . . spewable.

If you're not a committed Christian, sold out and giving ALL of yourself to the Lord and to His service, please take time today to search your heart. Confess your sins of lukewarmness and make a commitment, a REAL and lasting commitment to serve Him with all your heart, soul, mind and strength. And, for safety's sake, drive on the right side of the road!

Our God is worthy of all we can give, and so much more. He deserves our total commitment in every area of our lives.

Father, thank you, Lord, for showing me what is important to You. Father, please help me to be "hot" at all times, not compromising, and always committed. Lord, I love you and truly desire to serve You all the days of my life in a manner that is pleasing to You regardless of what it costs me personally and always for your glory, Amen.

© Jan Ross
All Rights Reserved

PRAYING THRU THE 10/40 WINDOW: Guinea & Thailand. Lord, as we lift these countries to You, we are reminded of Your love toward all & Your desire that none should perish. Send laborers into these fields with a message of repentance & salvation. Send Your Word & heal the sinsick, protect those who endure persecution for Your sake. Expose political corruption, provide for the poor & reveal Your Truth in Jesus name amen.

"All the nations you have made will come and worship before you, O Lord; they will bring glory to your name. For you are great and do marvelous deeds; you alone are God." (Ps 86:9-10)

PRAYING THRU THE 10/40 WINDOW: Bhutan & Saudi Arabia. Lord, millions of people in these nations, yet less than 1% claims to know the Truth. We grieve with You over the lost, the deceived, the blind. Send those who will respond to Your commission to "Go into all the world". Protect the persecuted. Expose corruption. Draw every wayward heart to true repentance and salvation in Christ. Amen!

Men Ministering to Men in Uganda ... Latest Newsletter by Heart of God East Africa. Take a few minutes to read the reactions and responses of the men who were part of the 2010 Outreach Team. You'll be blessed! http://ping.fm/er3oD

"Good and upright is the LORD; therefore he instructs sinners in his ways. He guides the humble in what is right and teaches them his way. All the ways of the LORD are loving and faithful for those who keep the demands of his covenant." (Ps 25:8-10)

God is a God of covenant; He is a God of promise!

The Word of God is full of promises made by God to His people. His provision for everything that pertains to life and godliness (see 2 Peter 1:3) is promised to us in His Word. What God says, He will do. The promises He makes are like a binding agreement as He cannot lie. When He says He will do something, you can count on it … it's done!

"For all the promises of God in him are yea, and in him Amen, unto the glory of God by us." (2 Corinthians 1:20)

Faith gives us the ability to walk in or receive the inheritance that God has promised to us. Faith originates in what God says, not in anything else such as man-made creeds or doctrines. The bookstores are filled with self-help books describing ways to do nearly anything you can conceive. But the Word of God is the written testament of what God has said – what He has spoken into existence. Unlike all other books, the Word of God is alive and powerful; its message never fades or dims with age. It never outdates itself and it never becomes obsolete. The Word of God is as pertinent to believers today as it was the day it was written through divine inspiration of the Holy Spirit.

When you read the Word remember it is personal to you, your children, and your children's children … to all generations.

Father, thank you for reminding me that Your promises are still for us today. Teach me how to walk in faith to receive that which You have promised me. Open my eyes to learn what Your Word has to say to me personally. Help me to learn to rely on Your Word for my daily sustenance; may it become more important than my physical nourishment. Lord, I want to please you, I want to know You, I want to walk in the fullness of what You have provided for me. In Jesus' name, amen!

The LORD Almighty has sworn, "Surely, as I have planned, so it will be, and as I have purposed, so it will stand." (Isaiah 14:24)

© Jan Ross
All Rights Reserved

PRAYING THRU THE 10/40 WINDOW: Japan & Guinea-Bissau. Father, as we pray for these countries, we ask You to pour out Your Spirit on all flesh, calling every man, woman & child to repentance & consecration to You. Expose & heal the political corruption. Protect those who have surrendered their lives to You. We pray these countries will turn away from dead religion & embrace the Truth of Jesus Christ. Amen.

"The badge of courage does not require that we walk through something dangerous. It simply requires that we continue to share God's love whenever and wherever we are." (Tom White)

"See to it, brothers, that none of you has a sinful, unbelieving heart that turns away from the living God. But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called Today, so that none of you may be hardened by sin's deceitfulness." (Hebrews 3:12-13)

What mortal mind can begin to comprehend the ways of our Lord? He has no bounds; there is no limit to His understanding and knowledge. There is no place He hasn't been or anything He hasn't considered. He knows all . . . past, present and future.

That's an interesting thought. He knows everything past, present and future. Some would want to attribute this type of time-transcending knowledge to those with psychic powers, the enemy's counterfeit for the omniscience and omnipresence of the Most High God.

"And it shall come to pass, that before they call, I will answer; and while they are yet speaking, I will hear." (Isaiah 65:24)

God is eternal, not bound by segments of time. God is omnipresent; He exists everywhere at all times, including our past, our present, and our future. He's present in yesterday (He knew us personally before we were born). He's present in today (He has personal knowledge of or a personal relationship with us today). AND He's present in tomorrow (He's already there in our tomorrow as He is not constrained by time).

So, when the Lord says, "before they call, I will answer; and while they are yet speaking, I will hear" we know that He has already heard the call and seen the need before we even knew it existed. It's true. "Your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask him." (Matthew 6:8)

Let faith arise in your hearts. There is no situation you can face of which He is not aware and in which He has not already intervened. He has eternity, past, present, and future, in the palm of His hands, hallelujah!

Father, You are more wonderful and glorious and Your ways are so much higher and awesome than I had ever imagined. Lord, each day as I read Your Word and I meditate on You I see a greater depth of Who You are than I had ever seen before. Lord, thank You for loving me so much that You would make provision for my needs before I even realize I have them. You are truly amazing to me and Your love and provision is overwhelming and humbling. All I can say is, "Thank You, Lord!" Amen.

© Jan Ross
All Rights Reserved

PRAYING THROUGH THE 10/40 WINDOW: Kuwait & Bangladesh. With less than 1% of the population confessing Jesus Christ as Lord, we intercede on behalf of those who walk in blindness. Father, the corruption in the government, persecution of those who believe, the poverty, the political unrest—reveal Your Truth to those who will seek and receive. Send laborers into this field, Father, to reap a harvest for Your glory. Amen.

"Faith, as Paul saw it, was a living, flaming thing leading to surrender and obedience to the commandments of Christ." (A.W.Tozer) How would you assess faith in your life? Is it a living, flaming thing leading you to surrender and obedience? If not, it's not too late to change.

"Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you." Eph 4:31-32